Aug. 21//Part One, Oahu, Hawaii//Vacation

August 21, 2018

The first time I really learned about Hawaii was the first time I saw Lilo & Stitch. I was young, and, Hawaii looked like a magical island in the middle of the ocean where people wear hula skirts, volcanos erupt with lava, and luaus happen every single night. A Hawaii adventure has always been near the forefront of my mind, and, this past May, everything seemed to fall into place for booking the amazing adventure.

Going to Hawaii for your honeymoon or anniversary, is like something from your wildest dreams! The Hawaiian islands are truly heaven on Earth; in fact, there are few places on this planet that host so much natural beauty, untouched, just waiting for you to enjoy.

Wilson and I explored the island of Oahu over the course of ten days! And, even though we were really busy, we enjoyed our time there. I am so excited to let you in on some of the highlights of our wonderful trip.

Our plane landed at Honolulu International Airport and we hopped in our rental car, went to dinner, and drove the hour or so to our bungalow on the western side of Oahu. We stayed in Waianae, which is totally unlike the rainforest, jungle-like, eastern part of the island. However, this hot and dry area boasts the most amazing sunsets.

TRAVEL TIP: When going to Oahu, Hawaii, I recommend staying in the southern part of the island, where most of the main attractions are. Wilson and I ended up driving at least an hour to most of the beaches and places we wanted to visit; therefore, if you stay in the country-like part of Oahu, you must have a rental car! And, be ready for a lot of traffic…

The view from our bungalow.

The next morning we both woke up around eight to head to Lanikai Beach on the windward side (eastern side) of the island. This little treasure has plenty of blue water and soft sand to make your morning peaceful and relaxing. Even though it happened to be a cool day when we were sitting on its shores (thanks Hurricane Harvey), I can see why Lanikai has been ranked many times among the best beaches in the world.

Lanikai Beach

Then, we hopped back in our rental car, and, drove to some amazing lookout points on the island.

The next morning we headed over to Iolani Palace in Downtown Honolulu. Iolani Palace was the royal residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaii. Today, the national historic landmark, is a marvel of opulence, innovation, and political intrigue for many tourists. Wilson and I both recommend purchasing the audio tour, which is interesting and informative.

Iolani Palace

Wilson and I finished off Thursday evening with a wonderful sunset cruise on the Star of the Honolulu.